Three Ways To Promote The Healthy Operation Of Your Furnace
Having the name and number of a trusted HVAC contractor on file is useful when you encounter a problem with your furnace. When the unit stops producing heat correctly, it's important to act quickly to arrange a repair visit -- especially if it's extremely cold outside. Any homeowner can play a role in the healthy operation of their furnace. Even if you're not familiar with how the unit works, some habits related to how you heat your home can reduce undue strain on the furnace and help it run properly and avoid breakdowns. Here are three ways that you can reach this goal.
Remember To Change The Filter
While your furnace's filter might be the last thing on your mind during your day-to-day activities, remember to change it regularly is important. A clean filter allows the furnace to work properly; pushing air through a blocked one will take longer to warm your home, which means the furnace will suffer extra wear through unnecessary use. The general rule for changing your filter is to do so every month during the months in which you run the unit. Although it's best to check your furnace manual for specific recommendations, some homeowners find that using higher-quality filters will lead to less-frequent changes.
Make Sure Your Vents Aren't Blocked
When the floor vents in your home are blocked, the air will take longer to heat up. This means that the furnace will be working extensively when it could otherwise be shut off and resting. Always keep an eye on your floor vents and ensure the air is flowing freely through them. The vents should be open and shouldn't be obstructed by furniture or even low-hanging curtains. If you have children, ensure that they don't remove the vent covers and hide toys or other objects in the vents that could block the proper flow of air.
Don't Heat The Home Unnecessarily
While everyone loves the idea of a warm, cozy home, it's important to strike a balance between being warm and giving your furnace a break. It's ideal to set your thermostat so that the furnace isn't running all day -- after all, it's OK to let the inside temperature drop a few degrees when you're away at work. Likewise, you should give the furnace a rest during the night. Throw another blanket on your bed and you can save unnecessary wear on the unit, which will help it work optimally for longer.
For additional tips or information on furnace repair, contact a company like Lakeside Heating & A/C Inc. or another location.